rights-of-way

Definition

The legal privilege to cross or use someone else's property for a specific purpose, typically for accessing your landlocked parcel or running utilities through their yard. These easements create permanent pathways that survive ownership changes, meaning future owners inherit both the right and the awkwardness of strangers traipsing across their land. It's neighborly cooperation enforced by legal documentation instead of friendliness.

Example Usage

Our driveway requires a right-of-way across the Johnson property, which makes every neighborhood dispute extra uncomfortable.

Source: Common real estate and legal terminology

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